Jodie Comer to Star in HBO Thriller The Chain

Published: Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 4:00 pm

Jodie Comer to Star in HBO Thriller "The Chain"

HBO has cast Jodie Comer, known for her role in "Killing Eve," as the lead in the upcoming thriller series "The Chain." The show, ordered by HBO in January, marks the first project from showrunner Damon Lindelof's two-year deal with the network.

"The Chain" is based on Adrian McKinty's 2019 novel of the same name. The story centers on Rachel, a suburban mother who faces an unimaginable situation when her daughter is kidnapped. The plot involves a complex kidnapping scheme where parents must abduct another child to secure their own child's release. Lindelof has indicated that the series will expand upon the book's narrative.

Lindelof, known for his work on shows like "Lost" and "Watchmen," expressed his enthusiasm for adapting the thriller, citing its "dark, weird, exhilarating touches." He will serve as showrunner and executive producer. The pilot story is credited to Lindelof, Carly Wray, and Breannah Gibson, with Lindelof and Wray writing the pilot script.

Comer's recent credits include "28 Years Later," "The Bikeriders," and "The End We Start From." She is also set to appear in "The Death of Robin Hood" alongside Hugh Jackman and Bill Skarsgard.

The series will be executive produced by Michael Ellenberg and Lindsey Springer Media Res, along with Shane Salerno, Gibson, and Joe Iberti. McKinty will also serve as a co-executive producer.

BNN's Perspective:

The premise of "The Chain" is certainly gripping, and the casting of Jodie Comer is a strong move. While the subject matter is dark, Lindelof's involvement suggests a thoughtful and potentially compelling exploration of the themes of desperation and morality. It will be interesting to see how HBO handles this complex narrative.

Keywords: Jodie Comer, The Chain, HBO, Damon Lindelof, thriller, kidnapping, Adrian McKinty, Killing Eve, showrunner, series, Rachel, suburban mother, executive producer, pilot, casting, adaptation, novel, television, entertainment

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